Topic Tuesday // What is mental health reform and why is it important for you // Feb 14, 7-9pm AEDT

Good everning everyone!

Tonight we are lucky to have Mental Health Australia's CEO @FrankGQuinlan

For those who haven't heard of MHA, -

Mental Health Australia is the peak, national non-government organisation representing and promoting the interests of the Australian mental health sector and committed to achieving better mental health for all Australians.

We have two hours to tackle learn what is MH reform, what is the draft 5th National MentalHealth Plan, what impact it may have you and how can you advocate.

So, a big welcome to Frank!

Thanks Nik, good to be here 🙂

There is so much happening at the moment!

I'd love to hear what people are thinking the main areas of reform should be???

I would like to hear a brief outline of the major changes.

For me one of the biggest issues is the bad stuff that still goes on in inpatient settings. I have a lot of trauma-related issues due to my experiences IN the mental health system which now impact my life more than the factors that brought me into contact with the system in the first place.

Sure!

The 5th Plan was put together by all state and territory governments and the Commonwealth together.

To be honest, we were not that happy with the first draft - released last year.

it had no targets, no money, no concrete actions, and was focussed almost completely on health (not emplyment, housing, etc)

There has been some consultation sice, and governments are now considering that feedback and developing a new draft - for release later in the year.

Did anyone see the Draft? What did you think?

Haven't seen the draft - will check it out now and come back

I didn't see the draft, but what you describe sounds like it fits with society's obsession with the medical model of MI, rather than considering other factors such as housing and employment.